Medical facts on allergies, symptoms and diseases!
Athletes foot
Athlete's foot is a fungal infection of the skin of the foot,
usually between the toes, caused by parasitic fungi. Between sweaty toes is an
ideal home for the fungus, which is usually picked up from swimming pools and
communal changing rooms. In athlete's foot the fungus grows in the skin around
the toes and it can easily spread to the nails - up to 30 per cent of those
with athlete's foot will have affected nails.
It makes the skin itchy, red and sore and, if not treated, the skin soon
becomes soggy and starts to crack and peel.
What causes athletes foot?
- The fungus can be contracted by sharing the shoes of an infected person.
- The fungus needs a warm moist environment to flourish and has been found growing
on the floors of locker rooms and public showers and in swimming pools
and whirlpools.
- The fungus can also be transmitted by contact with pets who carry it
on their fur.
What are the symptoms?
Athlete's foot causes scaling, flaking and itching of the affected skin.
Blisters and cracked skin may also occur, leading to exposed raw tissue,
pain, swelling, and inflammation. The infection can be spread to other
areas of the body, such as the armpits, knees, elbows, and the groin.
What is the treatment?
Many over-the-counter antifungal medications can be applied to the affected
area. These creams should be used sparingly but regularly, at least once a
day. An application the size of a chocolate chip should be adequate to cover
the entire bottom of your foot.
It is important to keep your feet clean and dry. Wear clean absorbent socks
made of natural fibers, such as cotton, and change them during the day if
your feet become moist or sweaty.
If possible, remove the insoles of shoes and sneakers to allow them to dry
out over night.
Dusting the inside of your shoes and socks with talcum powder or a medicated
powder such as Desenex will help to decrease the moisture level.
Alternate wearing different pairs of shoes to allow them to dry out for a
day or two at a time.
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